Lord of the Darkwood

Synopsis

Against a background of wild forest, elegant castles, hidden temples and savage battlefields, the adventure that began with Emperor of the Eight Islands draws to its thrilling conclusion, in Lian Hearn's Lord of the Darkwood.

The rightful emperor is lost. Shikanoko is condemned to live, half-man and half-deer, an outlaw in the Darkwood. Yet the mighty lords who now rule the Eight Islands are prey to suspicion and illness, and drought and famine choke the realm. Only Shikanoko can bring healing, by restoring the preordained ruler to the Lotus Throne. And only one person can bring him back from the Darkwood . . .

Hearn continues to explore issues of fate, love, moral failure, and moral redemption through characters both archetypal and heartbreakingly believable.

Kirkus Reviews

A thrilling tale of love, violence, loyalty and betrayal

Guardian on Tales of the Otori

The plot is gripping and the writing is beautiful, packed with authentic, atmospheric detail